from “Super Mario Bros.” ” to Starblade, the interrupted evolution of female characters

Nervous action name, a post-apocalyptic universe that promises ambitious art direction fueled by clever use of the PlayStation 5’s capabilities. Available April 26th. Star Blade (Shift Up, Korean studio) – one of the major releases of 2024. However, beyond its gaming qualities, the game is controversial. It’s about the sexualization of his character, between the extremely tight catsuit, the bouncing breasts and the voyeur angle. A sign that video games are trying to free themselves from sexist tropes? Not really.

Because for several years, contrary to the case Star BladeMany development studios are working to improve the treatment of their female characters. From the independent stage to major productions, there are plenty of adventures featuring female protagonists (The Last of Us Part 2License Horizon Or Grand Craft Auto VI due out in 2025), and the ability to choose the gender of your avatar has almost become standard, particularly in RPGs.

Quantitative evolution coupled with improved writing of said characters. “Like every cultural sector, video games suffer from two forms of sexism.– explains Teresa Lynch, an American scientist and co-author of several studies on this topic. The tip of the iceberg is obviously hostile sexism. » Clearly misogynistic speech that does not bother to relegate women to a secondary and demeaning role. “Submerged face is so-called benevolent sexism.”– continues the researcher. A paternalistic view of the feminine, viewing it as something that requires protection due to its natural “fragility.”. “Reading, embodied in the archetype of a princess who needs to be saved, is an excellent excuse to write a script for a license like Super Mario Bros. (Nintendo).

More complex characters

But as a sign of change, the world of the famous plumber has recently turned its attention to the famous Princess Peach in the game. Princess Peach: Showtime released in March. Another flagship license from a Japanese publisher, the latest Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023) gives the eponymous princess an active role. “Instead of passively waiting for the male hero to exploit her, this time she is a true narrative cog in the adventure.”– Teresa Lynch comments.

Logical continuity for Pavel Kroenke. “Over the years, video games have evolved and improved.evaluates this narrative director Arkane Lyon, writer of the critically acclaimed game. Death loop and the future Blade. The script is playing an increasingly important role. It’s clear that by devoting more time and resources to building coherent universes and developing complex characters, he pushes the stereotypes back a bit. »

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